11 Best Foundation Companies in Elizabeth, NJ

On average, Elizabeth homeowners spend about $2,681 on foundation repair. The amount you'll spend on foundation repair is based on a number of factors. Things like the extent of the damage, the size of your home, and the type of repair needed will all factor in. The easiest way to learn how much a job could cost is to talk to a local foundation repair company and schedule a free inspection and estimate.

The primary types of foundation repair include crack repair, leak repair, underpinning, stabilization, and waterproofing.

Crack repair and leak repair are exactly as they sound: your foundation contractor will perform an inspection and take necessary measures to remedy cracks or leaks. The price will depend on the size and cause of the problem.

Underpinning, also called leveling or piering, is when a contractor levels your foundation by underpinning it with large concrete piers. The amount you can expect to spend depends on how many piers are required. The price of stabilization is also variable. This process involves fixing bowing walls by reinforcing them with carbon fiber or steel strips, and the total cost will depend on what material is used and how many strips are used.

Finally, waterproofing is an overarching term for a number of jobs intended to prevent water from getting into your foundation or basement. This can involve interior waterproofing, exterior waterproofing, or both, and the price can vary widely. We recommend contacting a waterproofing specialist if you're planning to waterproof your foundation.

If you're constructing a new house, make sure that a soil report is completed. This report contains information about how well the soil on a given piece of land can support a foundation, and can offer you a heads-up about any potential future issues. If your concerns are about an existing house, for a few hundred dollars, you can get an inspection and report by a structural engineer. They can point you to any current problems that need attention, and give you advice on how to avoid future problems.

You also want to make sure that the moisture around your foundation is appropriate. As Elizabeth sees more rain than many other places, keep an eye on your gutters and landscaping to make sure too much water isn't getting into your soil or foundation. You should also stay vigilant for leaky pipes or gutters and repair them quickly.

A permit is normally required for foundation repair, but applying for one shouldn't be your responsibility. Your foundation repair provider should obtain the permit and all other documents required in Elizabeth, and should be able to explain the process and/or provide the documents if asked.

Some signs that your foundation needs waterproofing include basement flooding, hairline cracks, uneven floors, discoloration or odors, white powder or spots on your walls, or signs of fungus, mold, or mildew. Your contractor can determine whether you need interior or exterior waterproofing.

Interior waterproofing can involve the installation of sump pumps and drains or the use of sealants and tends to be less expensive than exterior waterproofing. Exterior waterproofing often involves measures like applying physical barriers to basements and crawl spaces, installing exterior drains, or making landscape changes.

Typically, yes, you'll be able to continue living in your home while foundation repair professionals are working. Talk to your foundation repair technician to know for sure.